Talking Smooth Jazz

Italian saxophonist Gianni Vancini performed on the Dave Koz & Friends at Sea cruise and was one of the artists featured during the New Artists Spotlight show. Born in Mirandola, he studied saxophone under the instruction of Angelo Gabrielli and graduated with highest honors at the “Vecchi-Tonelli” Master Institute of Musical Studies in Carpi (MO) – ITALY.  His debut cd is called "Souls United" and Gianni will release a new cd called "Get Your Groove On" in January.

Up and coming trumpeter Gabriel Johnson was one of the standout performers on the 2013 Dave Koz & Friends at Sea Cruise.  His debut album “Introducing Gabriel Johnson,” blends his trumpet sound with the sound of modern jazz and hip-hop.

Marqueal’s solo debut CD, “Catalyst” showcases his full range as a saxophonist, vocalist & songwriter.  Fully funded on Kickstarter.com, Catalylst is scheduled for release on October 29.

Guitarist Joel Del Rosario and Keyboardist SureWill releases “Side by Side”, a 10 song album of original tracks the album features Tony Exum Jr., Toney Rhodes, & Sam Hankins.

5th and York - named after a street corner on the outskirts of Charlotte - is bringing fresh new sounds to the music scene as each member brings a unique style, background and musical ingenuity to the mix. A mix so popular that they are regularly asked to open for legendary artists like Frankie Beverly & Maze, Earth, Wind & Fire, Chicago, and R&B greats Anthony Hamilton and the late Gerald Levert. Listen to 5th and York and in an instant you will understand why this sensational band is on the rise to their own legendary status.?

James Colah is from London, England and is an accomplished keyboards player, producer, arranger, composer, session man and International Songwriter Award winner with an impressive resumé in the music industry.  Talking Smooth Jazz welcomes James to talk about his last project, The James Colah Project.

I went on an amazing cruise sailing from Rome, Italy, porting in Mykonos, Greece, Messina, Italy and Athens, Greece.  Artists included Brian Culbertson, saxophonist Elan Trotman, Gerald & Selina Albright, trumpeter Gabriel Johnson, eukele player Jake Shimabukuro, and so many more. It was not my first cruise but it was my first Dave Koz cruise and my first time out of the U.S.  It was a wonderful experience!

David “Pic” Conley, founding member of popular recording group Surface, was instrumental in the group’s #1 R&B hits “Shower Me With Your Love” and “Only You Can Make Me Happy.”  He is also known for his superlative flute solos, lusty vocals, and impeccable production masterpiece. His latest album is called Bird of Paradise.

Steve Cole's new CD “Pulse” is a 10-song set mixing R&B, contemporary jazz, gospel, blues and pop that he produced with fellow saxman David Mann. The new collection surveying Cole’s musical passions showcases the artist’s affinity for infectious melodies, a wall of horns, and soulful grooves.

Shanachie Records recording artists Pieces Of A Dream released their 20th album, In The Moment featuring superstar guitarist Rhon Lawrence and up and coming saxophonist Tony Watson, Jr.